One way that Forward Independence differs from other political parties is that we, the party, are principles based, not policy based.  We do not insist that candidates or members must "stick to the party line".  In fact, most members of Forward Independence (aka Forwardists) do not fully agree that Forward Independence should publish a specific platform & planks.  In general, our position is:

• Elected officials must represent all of the constituents in their electoral area, not just those who may have voted for them.
• Representing constituents comes from listening to their needs and working across all groups to find effective solutions that meet their constituents needs.

The people of Crookston will have different needs and may seek different answers than the people in Kenwood or Lake of the Isles.  A small group in a political party should not be telling the representatives from those areas what their priorities should be or what the "right" answers are -- that's not how American democracy is supposed to work.

Our Principles

Forward Independence members and those seeking our party’s endorsement must pledge to uphold the following principles.

1. Respect for the Rule of Law, the Constitution of the United States, and the Constitution of the State of Minnesota.  Democracy only works when people respect the established rules and the electoral system that is set up to elevate the voice of the voter.
   • Ground all work in the rule of law and our Constitutions.
   • Accept the results of elections barring contrary evidence verified in a court of law or by a constitutionally appointed officer responsible for election oversight.
   • Ensure all people are equally subject to and protected by the law.
   • Support and strengthen our democracy and political systems to elevate the voice of voters, not special interests, corporations, or individuals with excessive wealth.
2. Work collaboratively to craft long-term solutions to the most pressing problems of our communities and our state.
   • Use data to drive collaborative and effective solutions, regardless of the ideological source.
   • Work for community-oriented, consensus-driven solutions based on constituent input and in concert with elected officials of any affiliation who are willing to engage on the issue in good faith.
3. Public Servants should be role models for their communities
   • Treat everyone with Respect and Dignity
   • Act with Ethics, Integrity, and Compassion, including disclosing conflicts of interest, resigning from office if convicted of a felony, prohibition from stock trading while in office, and prohibition from lobbying for 3 years after leaving office.
   • Believe and act as a servant of their electorate, not as a ruler whose electorate is there to serve them.

Our Platform and Planks

Forward Independence shall, at its discretion, create a State Party Platform consisting of a number of planks.  This will be an official statement of public policy made and issued in the name of Forward Independence and will be in keeping with the values and goals of Forward Independence.  The platform and planks may be adopted or repealed at any regular or special session of the State Central Committee.

When adopted or repealed, you will find the current platform and planks (when published) by clicking on the links below:

Platform

Planks